Solar thermoelectric refrigerator

Journal Article · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1976 · Sol. Energy; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0038-092X(76)90063-3· OSTI ID:7338377

Vella, G J; Harris, L B; Goldsmid, H J

It is shown that a thermoelectric generator, which draws its heat from the sun, is a particularly suitable source of electrical power for the operation of a thermoelectric refrigerator. The theory of the combined thermoelectric generator and refrigerator is derived and the ratio of the numbers of thermocouples needed for the two devices is determined. It is found that this ratio can, in principle, be as low as unity, even for unconcentrated solar radiation, though practical considerations indicate that a ratio of 4:1 is preferred in this case. A 4-couple thermoelectric generator has been used to power a single-couple refrigerator. Temperatures below 0/sup 0/C have been achieved for a temperature difference across the generator of about 40/sup 0/K.

• Research Organization: Univ. of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
• OSTI ID: 7338377
• Journal Information: Sol. Energy; (United States), Journal Name: Sol. Energy; (United States) Vol. 18:4; ISSN SRENA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140502 -- Solar Energy Conversion-- Thermonic & Thermoelectric conversion
140901* -- Solar Thermal Utilization-- Space Heating & Cooling
30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION
300301 -- Thermoelectric Generators-- Design & Development
APPLIANCES
DESIGN
DIRECT ENERGY CONVERTERS
ELECTRIC APPLIANCES
GAS APPLIANCES
PERFORMANCE
REFRIGERATING MACHINERY
REFRIGERATORS
SOLAR REFRIGERATORS
TEMPERATURE GRADIENTS
THERMOELECTRIC GENERATORS
THERMOELECTRIC REFRIGERATORS